Standardization Instructor
Meritorious service as a founding member of the Guam Army National Guard (GUARNG). SFC Kelso was instrumental in establishing and developing its first aviation unit. He was solely responsible for the training, progression, and evaluation of all unit non-rated aircrew members and improved the unit's follow-up Maintenance Compliance Inspection results from 92% on the initial inspection to 96%. Additionally, he facilitated over 480 flying hours within the unit's first year while maintaining an operational readiness rate of over 90%. Sergeant Kelso's selfless service and dedication to duty are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Delta Company, 1-224 Aviation Regiment and the United States Army.
Standardization Instructor
For outstanding achievement as Standardization Instructor and Evaluator. SSG Kelso's unmatched technical expertise and attention to detail was the deciding factor during CBIRF Sling loads for Capitol Shield 2017. SSG Kelso's actions allowed for the successful inspection, re-rigging, and re-inspection of 13 sling loads totaling over 17,000 pounds to be moved without incident. His actions on PZ Stumpneck facilitated the Marine Corps ability to swiftly and successfully implement their tactical ground plan. Sergeant Kelso's selfless service and dedication to duty are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Charlie Company, 12th Aviation Battalion and the United States Army.
Air Crew Training Chief
For outstanding meritorious service as Air Crew Training Chief, Department of Safety and Standardization Chief from XXXXXXXXX to XXXXXXXXX. Master Sergeant Kelso consistently demonstrated an innate ability to lead, an extraordinary work ethic, and unparalleled aviation expertise. He consistently provided sage counsel, resilience, and unmatched resourcefulness that is recognized throughout the C-130 community. Master Sergeant Kelso was intimately involved in the planning and execution of numerous worldwide exercises and real-world contingencies to include Black Sea Rotational Force as well as multiple Integrated Training Exercises to include Cobra Gold and Javelin Thrust. Throughout his career, Master Sergeant Kelso has been an effective leader in the squadron, the C-130 community, and the U.S. Army, safely flying over 5,000 mishap free hours. His superior performance of duty during this tour is the hallmark of a career devoted to accomplishing broad and diverse assignments, highlighting the culmination of 22 years of honorable and dedicated military service. Master Sergeant Kelso's exceptional professionalism, personal initiative, and loyal devotion to duty reflected great credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the 228th Aviation Regiment and the United States Army.
